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"There are so many great contestants that it's hard to pick just one (laughs). But if I had to choose, it would be Sang-won. In Season 1, I was most impressed by Park Geon-wook's first performance."
Han Hae-ri-jun, the main dancer of DKB, shared various experiences from his time on Mnet's 'Boys 2 Planet.' In a recent interview at a café in Gangnam, he reflected on his journey as a 2004-born artist who debuted in 2020 and is now in his sixth year. Despite his exceptional skills, which earned him a top spot at Hanlim Multi Art School, his career was initially hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic. With limited opportunities to perform, he consistently participated in competition programs to prove his unique talent.
He appeared on Mnet's 'Be Ambitious' in 2022 and JTBC's 'Peak Time' in 2023, and last year, he won the Japan-Korea joint audition 'Re:Born.' However, due to production issues, his official debut was canceled. This year, on 'Boys 2 Planet,' he impressed viewers with his solid performances and his warm support for fellow contestant Park Dong-kyu.
Initially, he struggled to secure airtime and faced elimination. He barely survived the first ranking announcement, placing 47th out of 48. Leading the 'like JENNIE' stage with Lee Sang-won, Xu Qingyu, Kim Jun-min, and Jung Hyun-jun, he showcased a high-quality performance, rising to 24th place. However, he ultimately finished 26th, parting ways with the program. Park Dong-kyu, the last survivor, tearfully thanked Han Hae-ri-jun, and the two shared a heartfelt moment of friendship.
Han Hae-ri-jun formed meaningful connections on 'Boys 2 Planet.' When asked to name his most memorable 'one-pick' trainee, he hesitated, citing Lee Sang-won, Yoon Min, and Park Dong-kyu. He recalled, "I thought it would be hard to get close to Sang-won and Rio at first. Especially with Sang-won, I felt we were similar, so I expected some distance. But we ended up getting along very well."
"I used to think that having similar personalities would create a barrier. But being with Sang-won changed my mind. We connected better because of our similarities (laughs)."
Han Hae-ri-jun praised Yoon Min, saying, "He has a vocal style I love. He's not only a great singer but also someone with a lot to learn from character-wise." He added, "Dong-kyu is a cherished younger brother. Despite his age, he has a mature side. As a leader among IST Entertainment trainees, he shows maturity. I believe he'll grow and succeed greatly. He's an amazing friend."
"Many trainees see debut as the end goal. It shows how desperate they are to debut. But Dong-kyu is different. He knows debut isn't the end and understands the reality of success. Knowing his star quality and talent, I always wanted to boost his confidence."
When asked if he watched 'Boys Planet' Season 1, Han Hae-ri-jun said, "I watched it for study purposes after being confirmed for the show." He named Park Geon-wook as the most impressive contestant, explaining, "His first stage was not only skillful but also exuded confidence. His self-assurance allowed him to enjoy the stage, and that was conveyed to the audience."
Han Hae-ri-jun recalled easily bonding with experienced contestants. "I remember the VERIVERY members, Ye-chan, Jun-seo, and Seo-won. Despite the competition, we built friendships that allowed for healthy rivalry," he said. "Those who have been on stage for a long time are different. They have a professional finesse."
He also mentioned the '7-year advice' scene where NU'EST's Baekho spoke to Kang-min. Han Hae-ri-jun shared, "I usually try not to think negatively, but that scene touched me deeply. I empathized with Kang-min's tears, and if I were in his place, I would have cried too. It was heart-wrenching."
Lee So-jung, Ten Asia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr